FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Manheim Township Initiates Urgent Independent Investigation into Police Encounter Lancaster, PA – May 23, 2025 — In response to the April 30, 2025 incident involving Manheim Township Police Chief Duane Fisher and community member Benny Pena-Rivera, the Township will be engaging the services of an outside investigator through the Township Solicitor. Once the Township became aware of the potential circumstances surrounding the incident, immediate action was taken to place Chief Fisher on administrative leave and to start the investigatory process. Based on that initial investigation, it was determined an outside, independent investigator should handle the investigation going forward. “Public trust in law enforcement is paramount. We must bring in independent experts to provide a clear, unfiltered, and unbiased assessment of what happened,” said Rick Kane, Township Manager. Mr. Kane confirmed that all the Commissioners fully support an independent investigation and issued the following statement on behalf of the Commissioners. “The Commissioners and Township leadership are treating this matter with the seriousness and urgency it demands. All of the Commissioners are committed to protecting both public confidence and the integrity of the Manheim Township Police Department.” “We ask for the public’s patience,” Kane added. “The investigatory process must be done thoroughly and impartially.” Further updates will be provided as developments occur.